‘Beautiful images’ that were almost lost forever have gone on show to launch the new season at a Skegness theatre.

The photographs, from a collection discovered by the Embassy Gallery curator John Byford which now form the Patience exhibition, were displayed on Friday night to local dignitaries who had been invited along ahead of a performance of the West End show ‘Be Bop A Lula’.

Coastal BID manager Lisa Collins with husband Paul reflecting on how children used to enjoy themselves before 'health and safety'. MSKP-160218-16. ANL-180219-123007001

Mr Byford explained he discovered the photographs during a walk through town. He said: “Back in 1999, whilst walking along Drummond Road, in Skegness, I was drawn to an original black-and- white photograph of a beautiful lady, entitled ‘Patience’ in a junk shop window.

“The image – along with several hundred negatives, photos, photographic equipment and more personal items – were being offered for sale as part of a house clearance after Alec Manning’s death.

“As a photographer myself, I realised that many of the images were not only beautiful works of art, but an important social/historical document that should be preserved and I was horrified to learn the items would have been thrown away had no interest been shown.”

The photographs on show at the gallery are part of a collection of 1,000 images.

Pamena and Dennis Peach relax in the gallery of the Embassy Theatre, Skegness, ahead of the show to launch the new season. .MSKP-160218-22 ANL-180219-123038001

Mr Byford said: “Most of the images have never been seen before today, with only a handful ever being printed for exhibitions back in the 1950’s.”

Among the guests were Coun Maggie Gray who found the display very nostalgic, She said: “I can remember wearing clothes like that as a child.”

Brendan Bugg. theatre marketing officer, was delighted with the turnout for the first night. He said: “A new season is always a hugely exciting time at this wonderful venue.

A whole host of exciting productions and shows will hopefully entice thousands of people through the doors of the theatre over the coming months.”